1998 BMW 317 vs. 2008 Buick Lucerne
To start off, 2008 Buick Lucerne is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick Lucerne (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 262 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Buick Lucerne, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Buick Lucerne (309 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2008 Buick Lucerne has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Buick Lucerne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2008 Buick Lucerne | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 317 | Lucerne |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 309 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2940 mm |
